Ben Cramer follows the major candidates in their races to become president in 1988. He reproduces their speaking and thinking styles in such an incredible way that you will never be able to think of any of these people (Bob Dole, GHW Bush, Jesse Jackson) in quite the same way you did before.

His intense focus on how the candidates act differently when in private than they do when they're out giving their stump speech makes for fascinating reading. If you're tired of dry books that are "nothing but the facts, ma'am," you'll love this well-written story.

It's a great insight into the psyche of candidates, the jargon of campaigns -- and a demonstration of just how tough campaings are. (The author of this book is also a frequent contributer to Rolling Stone and Esquire. Some of the language in this book certainly isn't appropriate for younger readers).

No study of modern American politics is complete without reading this book. At the center of the political universe is the presidency. What kind of people seek this office, and all of the attendant scrutiny and hardship that even the most fortunate candidates endure? What personal attributes set one candidate above the rest?

Essentially, one of these men will be the most powerful man in the world, and have a chance at shaping history. This book answers the questions "why" and "how."

Cramer understands his subjects, and the profiles of each candidate would be excellent stand-alone biographies. Extremely readable and well written, without sacrificing substance.

A truly unique and indespensible work. To find out what it takes, read this book.

As a lifetime Democrat, I was horrified to read this book and feel not only sympathetic towards Bob Dole, but also admiration.

Of course, the author goes on to confirm my worst fears about George H.W., Reagan and some of the Democratic party's candidates from the era.

A stunning work. It is inspring and depressing at the same time.

Simply amazing. "What It Takes" stands as one of the most satisfying books - of any genre - I've ever read. As a work of journalism it is easily one of the best half-dozen since WWII. As a work of political biography it is the best (primarily because it manages to do with several subjects what most single subject bios fail to do: to explain the essence of what makes these men/women distinctly political/public creatures) ever. It's great shortcoming is as a history of the 1988 election (Sorry, RBC, Jesse Jackson's near total absence from this 1000+page work is inexcusable, as is the failure to better establish the 'Reagan Revolution' context of the '88 Republican nomination fight - ie why do you think that Pat Robertson finished 2nd in Iowa?? - and the general election).

I agree with earlier posts: this book will totally change one's perception of Bob Dole, who emerges as a figure of extraordinary personal courage and heroism and who spent much of his career in the Senate as an alienated insider. The depiction of the media in "What It Takes" is outright frightening. Their relentless hounding and blackmailing of Gary Hart and Joe Biden is shameful.

Overall, beyond being an extraordinary work of art it is a powerfully educational book. Entire college courses could be built around it.